Kohler Mira, a leading shower brand, has secured a significant legal victory in a patent infringement case against Triton's parent company. The dispute centred on allegations that Triton's DuElec shower range had copied Kohler Mira's patented electric shower technology.
Photo: Mira Showers.
The case was brought to the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court, with Kohler Mira arguing that Triton's products infringed on a patent related to its dual outlet electric shower design. This technology, patented in 2008, specifically addresses safety risks associated with diverter valves in electric showers. According to Kohler Mira, the patented design ensures that the flow rate remains stable during the switch between outlets, thereby preventing dangerously high water temperatures that could cause scalding.
Triton denied the allegations, asserting that the patent lacked novelty, was obvious, and was insufficient. However, Judge Melissa Clarke dismissed these claims, ruling in favour of Kohler Mira. In her judgement, she highlighted that Mira had identified and solved a known problem with a straightforward yet inventive solution. The diverter valve's ability to maintain a consistent flow rate during changeover was deemed a unique and inventive step worthy of patent protection.
Following the ruling, Kohler Mira expressed satisfaction with the outcome. Claire O'Brien, head of intellectual property litigation at Mills & Reeve LLP, praised the decision as a testament to Mira's commitment to innovation and the value of protecting intellectual property through legal action. Emma Foster, managing director of Kohler Mira, emphasised the company's dedication to research and development and its resolve to defend its technological investments and customers.
Triton, part of the Norcros Group, described the decision as disappointing and surprising. The company confirmed plans to seek permission to appeal the ruling in the new year. In the meantime, Triton will continue to manufacture and sell the DuElec range until the court determines the consequences of the judgement.
The dispute underscores the importance of intellectual property in the competitive shower market, where innovation drives industry growth. Kohler Mira's success in defending its patent highlights the effectiveness of the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court as a venue for resolving such conflicts. With the appeal process pending, the case continues to attract attention within the sector.
Source: www.kbbreview.com